If your toddler is around the 15-month mark, and sleep has suddenly become disrupted, they may be experiencing the 15-month sleep regression. It’s a less common regression and not every toddler will go through it, but for those that do this phase can be challenging. Understanding the regression and knowing how to navigate it can help you get through it more smoothly.
What is the 15-Month Sleep Regression?
The 15-month sleep regression is a period when a toddler who previously slept well suddenly starts experiencing sleep disruptions. These disruptions can include difficulty falling asleep, frequent night wakings, early morning wake-ups, and shorter naps. This phase can last anywhere from a few nights to a few weeks.
Why Does the 15-Month Sleep Regression Happen?
Several factors contribute to the 15-month sleep regression:
- Developmental Milestones: You toddler may have just started walking or could be on the verge of that. Walking is the milestone I typically see affect sleep the most. They start to explore their environment more independently and some toddlers are also learning new words. These new skills can lead to excitement and restlessness, making it harder for them to settle down at bedtime.
- Separation Anxiety: Around this age, toddlers often experience increased separation anxiety. They are more aware of their surroundings and may become anxious when they realize they are separated from their parents, especially at bedtime.
- Changing Sleep Needs: A common thing that I see causing disruption at this age is nap issues. 15-18 months is an average age for toddlers to transition from two naps to one. Many times they have either gone to one nap when they still need two or they are still taking two when they should really be taking one. Either of these things can cause sleep disruption at night.
How to Handle the 15-Month Sleep Regression
While the 15-month sleep regression can be tough, there are strategies you can use to get through it.
- Maintain a Consistent Routine: Stick to a consistent bedtime routine. A predictable sequence of events, such as bath, books, and cuddles, can signal to your toddler that it’s time to wind down and prepare for sleep.
- Comfort and Reassure: Provide extra comfort and reassurance during this period. Spend a few extra minutes cuddling or sitting with your child before bed to help ease their separation anxiety.
- Adjust Nap Schedules: If your toddler is transitioning from two naps to one, try to adjust their nap schedule gradually. Try to keep the window before bedtime to 4 hours to ensure they are not overtired by bedtime, which can make it harder for them to fall asleep and stay asleep.
- Encourage Independent Sleep: While it’s important to provide comfort, also encourage your child to fall asleep independently. This skill will help them self-soothe and return to sleep if they wake during the night.
- Be Patient and Consistent: Regression phases are temporary. Be patient and consistent with your approach. Your child will eventually return to their previous sleep patterns (as long as no new habits have been formed during the regression!).
When to Seek Help
If your toddler’s sleep regression persists for more than three weeks, it is likely this is their new normal and no longer a regression. I would be happy to give you my professional guidance and provide you with personalized strategies and support to get you all back to sleeping well! Book a complimentary call to discuss how I can help!